Page 148 of Harley & Her Ferals

River hasn’t done that, right?

River wouldn’t.

But then, I remember the poisons that grow beside the flowers in River’s workshop.

River’s talk of revenge.

Dad killed River’s entire family in Sicily

River adored his parents…his entire life in a country where he was valued.

Where he would have become not only a mafia heir but also, a doctor.

Dad dragged River into the Underworld instead, to be beaten and used as a servant.

Whywouldn’tRiver ruin the moment of Dad’s naming of his own heir in front of every pack?

River’s shoulders are slumped like he doesn’t think that I’ll believe him, as he repeats more softly, “I didn’t do this. I would never hurt your daughter. I love her.”

No matter how much evidence may point at River, I’d never believe that he’d do this.

River has every reason to seek revenge for the death of his family.

To seek revenge for having his life destroyed.

My heart aches for what’s been done to him.

Yet I trust him.

“I believe you,” I whisper.

River’s head snaps up like I’ve just given him the best gift.

“So do I,” Laurent adds.

Despite the pain of Dad’s hand around his throat, River still manages to smile.

“Dumb Omegas.” Dad shakes his head. “Innocent as little lambs. This is why you need Alphas to protect you.”

River’s expression steels, as he narrows his gaze at Dad. “You can kill me after your daughter’s heat but not before. She needs me to help her through it.”

“Why would I trust you near her at all?”

“Because he didn’t do anything to the suppressants,” Laurent coolly replies. “Allegra did.”

Dad glares at Laurent. “Choose your next words carefully, or as much as I don’t want to damage you, I will still give you a spanking that you’ll never forget for slandering a good Omega like my daughter.”

“Laurent,” I warn.

Laurent tilts up his chin. “Allegra has been the Omega head of this household, hasn’t she? She’s the one who orders in the suppressants, not River. Why don’t you check whether I’m right? What River is holding back from telling you (because he’s foolish enough to protect every Omega, even the vicious ones who don’t deserve it), is thatsheis responsible for the Omegas’ medicine. She stores the heat suppressants and not the medic who you’re currently blaming.”

Shit, is that true?

Typical Laurent that he’s analyzed the complex workings of this household in a way I’ve never bothered to. After all, as Second Omega, I’ve never needed to.

In some ways, I’m lucky that my sister and brother are the only ones who have had to work hard on such details.

Laurent is astounding that he’s unraveled this.

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